Corporates can buy land on forest fringes in Bengaluru

The idea is to develop at least one 'city forest' initially on forest land, ranging from 20 hectare to 100 hectare, in cities having municipal corporations. (Representative image)BENGALURU: A new policy to allow corporates to buy farm land on forest fringes could bring hope to farmers who live under the constant fear of animals raiding their crops.

Corporates who buy land will be allowed to take up low-density tourism, while also promoting agro forestry in the buffer zones. Depending on a corporate's objectives, plant material for the buffer can be selected to provide food, shelter or nesting areas for various wildlife species.

These forest buffers also provide income opportunities for land owners. The corporates or farmers who own land in buffer zones or elephant corridors, may also volunteer to surrender the land to the government to take up tourism, but will not be allowed to put up permanent structures in the area, under Public-Private Partnership (PPP).

"Any effort related to such PPP models for creating buffers or corridors must be carefully scrutinized to ensure that genuine donors participate and real estate sharks are kept out. Therefore, the forest department must sign clear MoUs to regulate land use, not only to prevent mindless construction but also to ensure that ecologically viable buffers and% corridors are created, which is truly voluntary," he added.

Joseph Hoover, a wildlife photographer and conservationist, said the initiative will facilitate animal lovers to buy land to save wildlife. He cited his own example where he bought four acres close to Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary to prevent commercial activities, and allowed the land to be used by wildlife.

"Using the Corporate Responsibility Fund, corporates can get involved to enhance wildlife habitat and reduce man-animal conflicts to a great extent,'' said Rana George, member of the State Wildlife Board recently. Another wildlife activist, Harish Belliappa, said the move will also help increase forest or tree cover from the present level of less than 25% in the state.